Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Charity, Grand Cross in Gold and Diamonds, White Distinction, by Cejalvo

(Orden Civil de Beneficencia). Instituted on May 17, 1856. A gorgeous set, of high quality manufacture, featuring a sash badge, in Gold, offering a white-framed eight-pointed star with red enameled edges of a Maltese cross set underneath of the arms, faceted ball finials, obverse is stylized by partially enameled central medallion with Latin inscription FORTITUDO CHARITAS ABNEGATIO, superposed by a hand-made symbol of charity with enamels of multiple colors, the reverse with mirrored design depicting a central pink enameled rose encircled by a white ring inscribed BENEFICENCIA PUBLICA, ornate suspension, measures 50.8 mm (w) x 57.9 mm (h), weighs 24.86 grams, small enamel chip on the figure of charity on the obverse, in extremely fine condition. 

A beautiful Star of the Order, in Gold, featuring a white-framed eight-pointed star with red enameled edges of a Maltese cross set underneath of the arms, culminating in three old natural cut diamond on each cardinal points, and one diamond at 2,4,7,10 o’clock, ornate silvered rays between each arm, the center medallion offers a hand-made symbol of charity with enamels of multiple colors, enameled central medallion with Latin inscription FORTITUDO CHARITAS ABNEGATIO, with three large old natural cut diamonds at 12, 3 and 9 o’clock, the reverse featuring a vertical pin flanked by dual stays, measures 69.95 mm (w) x 70.90 mm (h), grams 68.27 grams, enamels intact, a pristine star in near mint condition. 

Contained in a Spanish case of issue, featuring a blue leatherette exterior, white silk interior lid marked Cejalvo MADRID, and partial black velvet medalbed, measures 13 cm (w) x 26.5 cm (h) x 6 cm (d), functional clasp and hinge, very fine. 

Accompanied by a boutonniere denoting I Class. 

The Order of Charity (Orden Civil de Beneficencia) was founded by Queen Isabel II/Isabella II on May 17, 1856. It was established in recognition of the charity, solidarity, courage and valor of those volunteers who attended the cholera infection in Spain between 1854 and 1855. The Order was awarded to those individuals, whatever their social class, profession or occupation, who spontaneously, or by delegation of authority, rendered extraordinary services to the needy in time of public calamities. It was awarded also to those who had made voluntary donations according to their fortunes. 

The Grand Cross class was added in 1910. The White distinction was awarded in recognition of meritorious acts and services within charities and public health.